7 Best Happy Hour Deals In Town That Will Not Burn A Hole In Your Pocket

Rated one of the most expensive cities in Asia for alcohol, it would seem logical for alcoholics to be seen at neighbourhood coffeeshops instead of exorbitant bars and pubs that will rip you off your wallet. Well, drinking in Singapore doesn’t necessarily have to cost you a bomb. With awesome happy hour promotions, booze prices are slashed and your wallet gets a little breather.

Here’s our take on great happy hours places that aren’t hidden at the far ends of Singapore. With pubs, bars and restaurants located all at the central area – Orchard Road and Bras Basah, you’ll never have to travel far to get your cheap booze.

1. Loof

[caption id="attachment_8794" align="alignnone" width="1024"]Loof Bar Image credit: Loof[/caption] [caption id="attachment_8795" align="alignnone" width="1024"]loof bar Image credit: Loof[/caption]

At Loof, the early bird catches the best prices. Awarded Singapore’s best rooftop bar, it is one of the most dope spots in downtown CBD. Bask in its urban garden and take in the best view of Raffles Hotel, or soak up beats from resident DJs and theme party nights. From 5pm to 8pm on weekdays, all drink prices will match according to the time. Housepours, wines and beer are $5 from 5-6pm, $6 from 6-7pm and $7 from 7-8pm. Arrive early for cheaper drinks! With such prices, imagine the number of glasses we’d be ordering.

kpo cafe bar Image credit: sgasiacity[/caption] [caption id="attachment_8811" align="alignnone" width="1024"]kpo bar Image credit: wearespaces[/caption]

After a dramatic makeover of the iconic Killiney Post Office, KPO opened its door in 2010. It now accommodates up to 500 people with both indoor and outdoor seating available. This bar has become a staple on Orchard Road.

Happy hours happen daily till 8pm and day-time alcoholics will rejoice over housepour wines and spirits that are available from $10 to $11 and beers on tap from $12. For the ladies, head down on Wednesday nights for martinis at $8. Enjoy the tunes that their DJs spin or listen to hip-swaying music as you kick back and relax over a cold pint of beer or wine. Chill the night away while you enjoy the hustle and bustle of city life.

icecoldbeer Emerald Hill outlet, Image credit: icecoldbeer[/caption]

Opened in 1994, Ice-Cold Beer is housed in a restored Peranakan shop house and offers customers icy-cold beers from unique ice tanks. Beers are served in beer glasses chilled to -3 degrees Celsius to keep them icy-cold for a long time. Choose from over 60 types of bottled and draught beers from local to international beers.

During happy hour, get a pint of Hoegaarden at $11 nett or a jug of Stella Artois at $23. Located just off the busy Orchard Road, Ice-Cold Beer allows its customers to relax in its quiet and comforting space. They also have another outlet at SMU where you can get a 2 bottle deal of Kronenberg Blanc for $15. Reasonably priced cold beers served by friendly staff in a relax casual environment – sounds good!


Happy Hour: Daily 11am – 9pm
Address: 50 Stamford Rd #01-01, Singapore 178899
Contact: 65 6837 3585
Opening Hours: Mon-Thu 11am-12am, Fri, Sat, Eve of PH 5pm-3am 11am-1am, Sun/PH 4pm-12am

4. Tanuki Raw

[caption id="attachment_8798" align="alignnone" width="1000"]Tanuki Bar Orchard Central Image credit: Tanuki Bar[/caption]

Known for its insane happiest hours where freshly shucked oysters go for $2, martinis and cocktails for $10, a pint of beer of $12, this place is the most value-for-money food and drink spot along Orchard Road. Enjoy happy hours from 5pm-8pm daily after a hard day’s work. Choose between enjoying live music on their alfresco balcony overlooking Orchard Road, or on their patio in the beautiful Bras Basah civic district.

Need we say more? With happy hours including fresh oysters and a good cold cocktail or beer, this is the place to be hanging out comfortably after a long day without burning a hole in your pocket. What’s more, enjoy these prices without any extra service tax or GST. Do note that Tanuki Raw does not take reservations so remember to arrive early to avoid long queues.

Tanuki Raw (Orchard Central) 
Happy Hour: 5pm-8pm
Address: 181 Orchard Road, #04-01 Orchard Central, Singapore 238896
Contact: 65 6636 5949
Opening Hours: Daily 1130am-1030pm

Tanuki Raw (Kapok)
Happy Hour: 5pm-8pm
Address: 111 Middle Road, #01-05 National Design Centre, Singapore 188969
Opening Hours: Daily 10am-10pm

5. Five Izakaya

[caption id="attachment_8799" align="alignnone" width="640"]fiv-bar cuppage Image credit: paowmagazine[/caption]

Five Izakaya is Singapore’s first Tachinomi Izakaya inspired bar. Modelled after the 300-Yen bars, the “five” in their name refers to the price of the drinks. Yes, you can get Asahi, Shochu, Choya, and basically every drink here at $5! It’s not a gimmick. It’s happy hour here everyday, at anytime! Even the snacks here are $5. Unbelievable.

Five Izakaya has 4 outlets. One of them is just off Orchard Road at Cuppage Terrace. Enjoy live music and cosy ambience with drinks and food at affordable prices. With such cheap prices in town, this is the perfect place to catch up and chill out after a long day at work. Getting a seat here might prove challenging. Hence, visit early or make a reservation at least 1 day in advance! Do check out their other 3 outlets and opening hours
Happy Hour: Everyday, anytime
Address: 25 Cuppage Road, Cuppage Terrace, Singapore 229454
Contact: 65 6733 8097
Opening Hours: 5pm – 12am Daily

6. No. 5 Emerald Hill

[caption id="attachment_8802" align="alignnone" width="1024"]5 emerald hill Image credit: moneysmart[/caption]

Located conveniently a street away from Orchard Road, this Peranakan-style bar has a number of extremely cost saving drink options. It has the longest happy hour session in town with deals from 12pm to 9pm followed by Martini specials from 9pm all the way to 1am. With two Martinis for $16, this bar has won our hearts for late night drinks in the city. Their wide range of cocktails including Chilli Vodka and No. 5 Cocktail are not to be missed. The drinks pair delightfully with their famous Prawn Paste Chicken Wings and selection of Pizzas.

Their relaxed, unpretentious atmosphere has remained unchanged over the years; and that has drawn us back every time.

Bar Canary Image credit: Park Hotel Group[/caption] [caption id="attachment_8807" align="alignnone" width="1024"]Bar Canary Image credit: Park Hotel Group[/caption]

Located strategically in the heart of Orchard, Bar Canary is an open-air bar perched on the fourth level of 5-star Grand Park Orchard Hotel. Away from the hustle and bustle of city life, Bar Canary provides an idyllic oasis for shoppers and busy working adults to relax. With mesmerising fairy lights illuminating its alfresco bar, its atmosphere is spot on and it is one of Orchard Road’s hidden gem.

Beat the clock and jumpstart your happy hour at the Bar Canary with their special deals available from 6pm to 9pm. Round up your friends and colleagues and choose from a bucket of 8 bottled beers or a set of house red or white wine and your choice of 4 signature cocktails from $60++ at 6pm, $70++ at 7pm, $80++ at 8pm and $90++ at 9pm. At Bar Canary the early bird gets the cheap booze! Cocktail fans might want to try their signature Coco Chanel. Coconut liqueur shaken with gold rum, fresh coconut water, lime juice, fresh mint and wheatgrass which leaves a refreshing taste.

For some mid-week fun, on Wednesdays from 7pm to 9pm, girls get free flow champagne, housepour wines, spirits and signature cocktails at $50++ while men pay $100++. Head down to Bar Canary and enjoy a good catch up session with your friends and colleagues!

Here’s An Ingenious Way To Easily Save 10% Off Your Dining Bills

12 Best Breakfasts To Start Your Day Like A Typical Local

The concept of brunch –  sipping a cuppa in between mouthfuls of “insta-worthy” eggs benedict in a café ornamented with wooden furniture – has evolved into a millennial lifestyle. Brunch is now everyone’s favourite meal of the day, and our city is abuzz with an abundance of cafés serving beautifully plated food. While we wholly embrace this global trend, it should not keep us away from our local breakfast spread.

From good ol’ kaya toast to a fluffy egg prata, these are some humble and familiar food options that are authentically Singaporean. Take a step back from the hype of fancy cafés and fusion cuisines, we’ve compiled 12 of our favourite places for your local brekkie fix. One more thing: they are all open before 11 am. Sometimes breakfast is better than brunch.

  1. Keng Wah Sung

[caption id="attachment_8449" align="aligncenter" width="700"] Source:
  • Chen Shun Mei Tau Huay

  • [caption id="attachment_8446" align="aligncenter" width="700"]Source: slurploveforfood Source: slurploveforfood[/caption]

    The pudding-like beancurd (think Lao Ban) craze once hit our shores and drove Singaporeans to queue for hours on end. However, it couldn’t stand the test of time in the end.

    At the end of the day, we will always go back to our traditional tau huay. Tau huay is the ultimate comfort food and there’s no better way to start your day than with a warm bowl of velvety goodness dosed in sugar syrup. This traditional offering at Chen Shun Mei has an impeccably silky texture and a homely taste to match.

    Chen Shun Mei Tau Huay
    Address: Serangoon Gardens Market & Food Centre, 49A Serangoon Garden Way, Singapore 550267
    Operating Hours: 08:00 – 20:00 (Tue-Sun)

    1. Selera Rasa Nasi Lemak

    [caption id="attachment_8451" align="aligncenter" width="700"]Source: smallpotatoesmakethesteaklookbigger Source:
  • Ghim Moh Chwee Kueh

  • [caption id="attachment_8474" align="aligncenter" width="700"] Source: eatingsumo[/caption]

    There’s something about steamed rice cakes and chye poh (preserved radish) eaten together that makes it so divine. This unassuming local delight deserves more love than it gets, and Ghim Moh is a long-time bigwig in the chwee kueh scene.

    Helmed by the original owner who has 37 years of experience under his belt, rest assured that the quality of this traditional treat will always be top notch – the saltiness of their chye poh complements the supple rice cakes perfectly.

    Ghim Moh Chwee Kueh
    Address: Ghim Moh Road Market and Food Centre, Blk 20 Ghim Moh Road #01-31, Singapore 270020
    Operating hours: 06:00 – 19:00 (Daily)

    1. Zhen Zhen Porridge

    [caption id="attachment_8455" align="aligncenter" width="700"]Source: recipeshubs Source:
  • Mr & Mrs Mohgan’s Super Crispy Roti Prata

  • [caption id="attachment_8456" align="aligncenter" width="700"]Source: therantingpanda Source: therantingpanda[/caption]

    Needless to say, a staple in our local food culture. Think fluffy-on-the-inside-crispy-on-the-outside prata dipped in a tangy curry sauce. The dough is made in house, and Mr Mohgan has over 30 years of prata-making experience.

    They have the standard plain, egg, mushroom and cheese variations, but we recommend the kosong prata which is the crispiest out of the lot. Their freshly made pratas and fragrant curry have won the hearts of prata lovers all over Singapore.

    Mr & Mrs Mohgan’s Super Crispy Roti Prata
    Address: Poh Ho Restaurant, 7 Crane Road, Singapore 429356
    Operating Hours: 06:30 – 13:30 (Closed Tue & Wed)

    1. Tian Tian Lai (Come Daily) Fried Hokkien Prawn Mee

    [caption id="attachment_8457" align="aligncenter" width="700"]Source: yoursingapore Source: thick yellow noodles and bee hoon is perfect to soak up the fragrant gravy at Tian Tian Lai. Forget chopsticks, scoop your noodles up with a soup spoon for a mouthful of rich, flavourful gooiness.

    Apart from seafood, pork lard is also fried together with the mee for added depth in flavour. They serve $4, $5 and $10 portions so you can slurp to your heart’s content!

    Tian Tian Lai Fried Hokkien Prawn Mee
    Address: 127 Lorong 1 Toa Payoh, #02-27 Toa Payoh West Market & Food Centre, Singapore 310127
    Operating Hours: 09:30 – 21:00 (Daily)

    1. Ghim Moh Carrot Cake

    [caption id="attachment_8458" align="aligncenter" width="700"]Source: yoursingapore Source: Ghim Moh Carrot Cake
    Address: #01-16, Blk 20 Ghim Moh Road Market & Cooked Food Centre, 20 Ghim Moh Road, Singapore 270020
    Operating Hours: 06:30 – 12:00 (Tue-Sun)

    1. Serangoon Gardens Bakery and Confectionery

    [caption id="attachment_8459" align="aligncenter" width="700"]Source: slowfood Source: Chomp Chomp.

    This traditional bakery kneads and prepares their own dough, and bakes over ten variations of old school buns and cakes everyday. Do drop by early to try their best-sellers; the potato curry buns and luncheon meat buns! These hot favourites are usually sold out by noon.

    Serangoon Gardens Bakery and Confectionery
    Address: #01-45, Serangoon Garden Market and Food Centre, 49A Serangoon Garden Way
    Operating Hours: 0700 – 1200 (or when buns are sold out, closed on Mon)

    1. Hill Street Tai Hwa Pork Noodle

    [caption id="attachment_8460" align="aligncenter" width="700"]Source: haleyxhm Source:

  • Afandi Hawa & Family Mee Rebus

  • [caption id="attachment_8461" align="aligncenter" width="700"]Source: justeatla Source:

  • Xin Xin You Tiao

  • [caption id="attachment_8462" align="aligncenter" width="700"]Source: nomsaurus Source: churros and we Singaporeans have our you tiao, a local equivalent. You tiao (fried dough fritter) has been a breakfast staple for as long as we can remember.

    Best savoured with kopi or a warm cup of soya milk, the handmade you tiao at Xin Xin has a crispy exterior and also comes with a generous spread of kaya on the side. Truly is the epitome of shiok.

    Xin Xin You Tiao
    Address: Hainanese Village Food Centre, Blk 105 Hougang Ave 1 #02-19, Singapore 530105
    Operating Hours: 06:00 – 11:00 (Closed on Mon)

    Breakfast is the most important meal of the day, so do it right with these delish, time-tested local treats. No one deserves to stomach a mouthful of disappointment first thing in the morning!

    (Header image source: foreword)

    Also read: Hipster Hawkers: 5 Stalls That Are Redefining Hawker Culture

    8 Best Laksa In Singapore For Thick, Flavourful & Spicy Broth

    When you hear the words “Singaporean Food”, what comes to mind? Chilli crab, curry fish head, prawn noodles or chicken rice? Well, for all of you out there who thought of laksa, we’re sure you’ve already eaten at a good number of laksa stalls in Singapore. But with that signature coconut aroma, thick spicy broth, and delicious noodles, there’s no hum having more right?

    Here are the 8 must-try laksa stalls in Singapore that you’ll never get tired of.

    1. 328 Katong Laksa

    [caption id="attachment_8422" align="alignnone" width="800"]Image Credits: ieatandeat.com Image Credits: ieatandeat.com[/caption]

    328 Katong Laksa has been around for as long as all of us can remember. Their signature short noodles that can be scooped with just a spoon and delicious laksa fragrance are just 2 reasons why they’re so famous. What’s the real reason for 328 Katong Laksa’s long queues? Well, they have nailed the most important aspect of laksa. The broth.

    328 Katong Laksa has found the perfect balance of coconut and milk. This is what brought success to the store. It even led them to beat world renowned chef Gordon Ramsay in the Singtel Hawker Heroes Challenge back in 2013. You can’t call yourself a true laksa lover if you haven’t had the laksa here before.

    328 Katong Laksa
    Address
    : 53 East Coast Road Singapore 428771
    Opening Hours: Daily 10am-10pm
    Price: Small $5, Large $7

    2. Roxy Laksa

    [caption id="attachment_8423" align="alignnone" width="1024"]Image Credits: sgfoodonfoot.com Image Credits: sgfoodonfoot.com[/caption]

    Another famous Katong Laksa in Singapore is Roxy Laksa, which started as a little stall at Roxy Cinema. Back in those days, instead of popcorn or nachos, movie goers would grab a bowl of laksa before they went to catch their movies. What makes Roxy Laksa different from the crowd? They do not add cockles. Yup, that’s right. No cockles but still a delightful bowl of laksa. With their fresh prawns, fish cakes and thick noodles, Roxy Laksa is definitely a must-try!

    Roxy Laksa
    Address:
    East Coast Lagoon Food Village, 1220 East Coast Parkway Singapore 468960
    Opening Hours: Mon to Fri 10:30am-9pm, Sat & Sun 8:30am-9pm
    Price: $4

    3. 928 Yishun Laksa

    [caption id="attachment_8425" align="alignnone" width="1600"]Image Credits: pinkypiggu.com Image Credits: pinkypiggu.com[/caption]

    Laksa lovers who stay in Yishun would know this stall. Located just a short 5 minutes walk from Yishun MRT station, this famous laksa stall is not to be missed. At just $2.80 a bowl, 928 Yishun Laksa is one of the cheapest in Singapore. What’s better is that the ingredients used are not cheapo pre-packed fish cakes and toufu. The cockles, crab sticks, beansprouts and other ingredients you’ll find in the bowl are all fresh and cooked to yummy perfection. Talk about cheap and good!

    928 Yishun Laksa
    Address:
    928 Yishun Central #01-155 Singapore 760928
    Opening Hours: Tue to Sun 11am-7pm
    Price: Small $2.80, Large $3.30

    4. Janggut Laksa

    [caption id="attachment_8426" align="alignnone" width="1600"]Image Credits: thewonglist.blogspot.com Image Credits: thewonglist.blogspot.com[/caption]

    Yet another katong laksa on the list is the famous Janggut Laksa. Located beside an outlet of 328 Katong Laksa in Queensway Shopping Centre, it is definitely the clash of two titans. Janggut Laksa is a strong laksa contender at Queensway. Just like the original katong laksa, the bee hoon can be scooped with a spoon. The broth here is neither too rich nor overpowering and the level of spiciness can be adjusted based on the amount of chilli mixed. Overall, we feel that 328 Katong Laksa and Janggut Laksa are pretty evenly matched. Which one is better? You tell us!

    Janggut Laksa
    Address:
    Queensway Shopping Centre Singapore 149053
    Opening Hours: Daily 11am-9pm
    Price: Small $4, Medium $5, Large $6

    5. Sungei Road Laksa

    [caption id="attachment_8427" align="alignnone" width="1024"]Image Credits: misstamchiak.com Image Credits: misstamchiak.com[/caption]

    Probably the only stall in Singapore that cooks laksa the traditional way, over a charcoal flame, Sungei Road Laksa is well known among laksa lovers. Because it’s cooked traditionally, the laksa really brings a taste of the past. The gravy has a strong aroma of dried shrimp and is overall, not too spicy. One small bowl will only set you back $3. The queue can get pretty long so if you’re planning on heading down, get ready to wait. But for a bowl of such goodness, that wait is definitely worth it!

    Sungei Road Laksa
    Address:
    Jin Shui Kopitiam, 27 Jalan Berseh #01-100 Singapore 200027
    Opening Hours: Daily 9:30am-5pm, Closed on Wednesdays
    Price: $3

    6. Depot Road Zhen Shan Mei Claypot Laksa

    [caption id="attachment_8428" align="alignnone" width="650"]Image Credits: danielfooddiary.com Image Credits: danielfooddiary.com[/caption]

    For a different kind of Laksa, this is definitely a must-try. Located along Depot Road, this laksa stall is frequented by many. What makes the laksa here stand out from the rest? It is served in a claypot! The hot claypot keeps the soup and noodles warm longer. The gravy is also thick and creamy, and is filled with delicious cockles, prawns and fish cakes. If you haven’t had laksa in a claypot before, you’ve got to try this one!

    Depot Road Zhen Shan Mei Claypot Laksa
    Address:
    Fine Taste Eating House, 119 Buket Merah Lane 1, #01-40 Singapore 151119
    Opening Hours: Daily 9am-5pm
    Price: Small $3.50, Medium $4.50, Large $5.50

    7. Red Hornbill

    [caption id="attachment_8429" align="alignnone" width="640"]Image Credits: hungrygowhere.com Image Credits: hungrygowhere.com[/caption]

    Red Hornbill is famous in Singapore for a really different kind of laksa. Instead of the usual thick broth and cockles, Red Hornbill serves the Sarawak version of laksa. The laksa gives off an aroma of spices and herbs, and the broth is mixed with curry, chicken and prawn stock. It is then topped with beehoon, chicken chunks and prawns. The queue can get pretty long at Red Hornbill, but for a chance to try this hidden gem, it’s definitely worth the wait!

    Red Hornbill
    Address:
    205 Bedok North Street 1 #01-357, Singapore 460205
    Opening Hours: Tues-Sun 11am-2pm, 4pm-8:30pm, Closed on Mondays
    Price: $5

    8. Penang Kitchen

    [caption id="attachment_8430" align="alignnone" width="720"]Image Credits: blog.seasonwithspice.com Image Credits: blog.seasonwithspice.com[/caption]

    For a taste of Malaysia’s Penang Assam Laksa, Penang Kitchen is the best. It is a clash of 3 big flavours, sweet, sour and spicy, all in one bowl. The broth is made with fish stock and different fiery chillis are added. The main feature of Penang Kitchen’s laksa is also the prawn paste that is mixed into the broth, which brings an intensely sweet flavour to the dish. All in all, Penang Kitchen serves a mean bowl of Penang Assam Laksa and if you’re planning on heading down, get ready for a flavourful treat!

    Penang Kitchen
    Address:
    5 Coronation Road, #01-05 Coronation Arcade, Singapore 437066
    Opening Hours: Daily 10:30am-9:30pm
    Price: $8.30

    Have a yummier laksa stall in your neighbouthood? Let us know! There’s nothing more comforting that a warm good bowl of laksa on a rainy or bad day.

    (Header image from sbs.com.au, words by author)

    Also read: Do It Yourself! 6 Eateries Where You Can Customise Your Own Food

    Under $15 Best Food Places That Make Our Hearts Go Bedok Bedok!

    Damn, Discover SG! Back at it again with the food lists!

    Take our hands cos we’re taking you on a journey through Bedok, a residential heartland in the East filled with amazing food at very affordable prices. Known for several famous hawker stalls, Bedok has also seen a rise in cafes shooting up like beansprouts.

    So instead of listless (pun intended) scrolling/swiping through random listicles, we’ve carefully curated the 10 places you should definitely check out in the area. Be it breakfast, lunch, or dinner, there is certainly no shortage of options! Thank us later.

    1. Nakhon Kitchen

    The Nakhon Kitchen chain and Thai food has been synonymous. You just can’t separate the two. Offering killer prices with consistently good authentic food, it’s hardly any wonder why there are long queues almost every day. The best part, no GST and service charge!

    [caption id="attachment_7749" align="alignleft" width="640"]Image Credit: burpple Green Curry Chicken ($8) & Pineapple Fried Rice ($6)
    Sweet, spice, and everything nice! A match made in heaven?
    Image Credit: burpple[/caption] [caption id="attachment_7759" align="alignnone" width="637"]Image Credit: burpple Phad Thai ($5)
    The popular Thai stir-fried noodles is a hot seller!
    Image Credit: burpple[/caption]

    Nakhon Kitchen
    Address:
    #01-166, 136 Bedok North Avenue 3, S 460136
    Opening Hours: Daily: 12 – 3pm; 5.30pm – 10pm
    Tel: 6245 5548

    2. Syed Restaurant

    Simpang Bedok is home to an entire stretch of halal restaurants, but none of them can beat Syed Restaurant for “best late-night prata”. Aside from crispy flatbreads, this eatery also serves a full slate of Indian-Muslim dishes. Open 24 hours, your supper cravings will not go unsatisfied.

    [caption id="attachment_7766" align="alignnone" width="640"]Image Credit: burpple Egg Prata ($1.50)
    Crisp on the outside, hot on the inside. A perfect supper meal!
    Image Credit: burpple[/caption] [caption id="attachment_7758" align="alignnone" width="640"]Image Credit: burpple Indian Rojak
    Image Credit: burpple[/caption]

    Syed Restaurant
    Address:
    326 Bedok Road, S 469496
    Opening Hours: Daily: 24 hours
    Tel: 6242 5412

    3. The Burning Oak

    The Bedok Marketplace is a very “atas” hawker center, so there are no surprises here that the food would also get the same pharaonic treatment. Follow the aroma of searing meat to the Burning Oak, a rustic yet modern food joint serving charcoal grilled Yakitori. Mouth-wateringly delicious, you’ll never go back to Tori-Q again.

    [caption id="attachment_7767" align="alignnone" width="640"]Image Credit: burpple Image Credit: burpple[/caption] [caption id="attachment_7762" align="alignnone" width="640"]Image Credit: burpple Classic Skewers ($1.50)
    Premium Skewers ($6)

    An assortment of quality Yakitori at affordable prices. Not a bad way to colour your life!
    Image Credit: burpple[/caption] [caption id="attachment_7769" align="alignnone" width="642"]Image Credit: burpple Wagyu Rump Cap Bento (Lunch Only) ($15)
    With an onsen egg hiding beneath the blanket of Iberico pork cheeks, be astonished as the fatty meat melts in your mouth.
    Image Credit: burpple[/caption]

    The Burning Oak
    Address:
    #02-16, Bedok Marketplace, 348 Bedok Road, S 469560
    Opening Hours:
    Tue – Thurs: 12 – 1.30pm; 6pm – 9.30pm
    Fri – Sun: 12 – 1.30pm; 6pm – 10pm
    Contact: 9873 6093

    4. Percolate

    Unlike the many many slew of cafes here in our tiny island, Percolate’s menu is friendly. Wallet friendly, that is. Despite food items being relatively cheap, food quality isn’t compromised. An awesome place for a light chill brunch or to grab a quick hot Papa Pahelta!

    [caption id="attachment_7757" align="alignnone" width="640"]Image Credit: burpple Image Credit: burpple[/caption] [caption id="attachment_7750" align="alignnone" width="640"]Image Credit: burpple Tom Yam Grilled Chicken on Ciabatta ($10)
    Tender grilled Chicken with Tom Yam gravy sandwiched between 2 buns? Ingenious!
    Image Credit: burpple[/caption] [caption id="attachment_7760" align="alignnone" width="643"]Image Credit: burpple Smoked Salmon Wasabi Croissant ($9)
    Don’t worry folks! Wasabi is mixed with mayo to create a mildly, yet savoury taste.
    Image Credit: burpple[/caption]

    Percolate
    Address:
    #01-152, 136 Bedok North Avenue 3, S 460136
    Opening Hours:
    Mon, Wed – Fri: 10.30am – 9.30pm
    Sat – Sun: 9am – 9.30pm
    Tel: 8259 0316

    5. Sarah’s The Pancake Café

    Good news to the Muslim pancake-loving community, this is a halal pancake restaurant (wow!). Sarah’s is home to fluffy brown pancakes, tasty crepes, and delectable pastas. But what’s so special about this place? Well, cafe owner Alina spices up the menu with local flavours using ingredients such as Gula Melaka, Otah, and Red Bean Paste.

    [caption id="attachment_7748" align="alignnone" width="656"]Image Credit: burpple Morning Run ($13)
    All my favourite stuff in one dish: pancakes, turkey bacon with mushrooms. Looks nice, tastes better!
    Image Credit: burpple[/caption] [caption id="attachment_7747" align="alignnone" width="660"]Image Credit: burpple Ala Mak ($15)
    Coconut pancakes, otah with poached eggs. Good for nasi lemak lovers!
    Image Credit: burpple[/caption] [caption id="attachment_7771" align="alignnone" width="663"]Image Credit: burpple Image Credit: burpple[/caption]

    Sarah’s The Pancake Cafe
    Address: #01-062, East Village, 430 Upper Changi Road, S 487048
    Opening Hours:
    Mon – Thurs: 11.15am – 10pm
    Fri: 2.30pm – 10.30pm
    Sat – Sun: 9am – 10.30pm
    Tel: 9688 4163

    6.To-gather Café

    Don’t you just love it when cafes start springing up in our heartlands? As compared to the town area, rental prices are kept much lower at heartlands so cafes are able to charge lower prices (to the delight of foodies). Speaking of low prices, To-gather is a no GST (yes lah!) food joint serving foodgasmic Western delights and artisanal coffee. Hurray to penny pinchers!

    [caption id="attachment_7753" align="alignnone" width="670"]Image Credit: burpple Seafood Aglio Olio ($8.90)
    Tiny chunks of salmon, squid, prawns on a bed of pasta. A seafood medley!
    Image Credit: burpple
    [/caption] [caption id="attachment_7754" align="alignnone" width="672"]Image Credit: burpple Image Credit: burpple[/caption] [caption id="attachment_7764" align="alignnone" width="677"]Image Credit: burpple Big Breakfast ($9); Fish & Chips ($12.90)
    With amazing Western fare at prices like these, the only thing you need to worry about is not over-ordering.
    Image Credit: burpple[/caption]

    To-gather Cafe
    Address: #01-25/27, 84 Bedok North Street 4, S 460084
    Opening Hours: Tues – Sun: 11am – 10pm
    Tel: 6445 1011

    7. Refuel Café

    The last café in this list, Refuel boasts a casual vibe with plenty of natural sunlight for that perfect Instagram shot. I use ‘affordable’ a lot (hey, who can blame me when it’s true!), so I’ll change my tune by saying that the food menu is value-for-money. For a wholesome and hearty meal, look no further.

    Must try: Full Tank ($13.90);

    [caption id="attachment_7761" align="alignnone" width="694"]Image Credit: burpple Full Tank ($13.90)
    A hearty breakfast meal which comes with scrambled eggs, bratwurst sausage, salad, mushroom and toast.
    Image Credit: burpple[/caption] [caption id="attachment_7765" align="alignnone" width="697"]Image Credit: burpple Fuel Me Up ($9.50)
    Image Credit: burpple[/caption] [caption id="attachment_7751" align="alignnone" width="696"]Image Credit: burpple Pulled Pork Burger ($12.90)
    Shredded pork soaked in Sweet BBQ sauce with sliced pickles. Slurps!
    Image Credit: burpple[/caption]

    Refuel Cafe
    Address: #01-3029, Blk 744 Bedok Reservoir Road, S 470744
    Opening Hours: Mon, Wed – Sun: 11am – 10pm
    Tel: 6448 0015

    8. Pin Xiang Chicken Rice

    It’s hard to miss this one, for this chicken rice stall generates a bustling long queue during lunch and dinner hours. The stall is true to its name (Pin Xiang means fragrant in Mandarin) with both the rice and chicken being extremely well prepared. I would consider this to be one of the best chicken rice stalls in Singapore.

    [caption id="attachment_7753" align="alignnone" width="708"]Image Credit: burpple Image Credit: burpple[/caption] [caption id="attachment_7755" align="alignnone" width="708"]Image Credit: burpple Signature Roasted Chicken Thigh Rice ($3.50)
    Pure unadulterated steamed chicken with fragrant rice. Wait here while I queue for seconds.
    Image Credit: burpple[/caption]

    Pin Xiang Chicken Rice
    Address: #01-03, Blk 208B, Bedok Interchange Food Centre, New Upper Changi Road, S 460207
    Opening Hours: Daily: 9am – 10pm

    9. Xing Ji Rou Cuo Mian

    The highlight of this humble list and one of my favourites of all-time, Xing Ji Bak Chor Mee is like seriously out of this world! The 30-45 minutes wait is well worth it. There’s only a soup version but the soup/broth is rich and immaculate. It outshines the meatballs and noodles by a mile. Tip: order more than 1 bowl.

    [caption id="attachment_7768" align="alignnone" width="716"]Image Credit: burpple Bak Chor Mee ($3.50)
    “Probably the best Bak Chor Mee in the world” – said everyone ever.
    Image Credit: burpple[/caption]

    Xing Ji Rou Cuo Mian
    Address: #01-07, 85 Fengshan Food Centre, Blk 85 Bedok North Street 4, S 460085
    Opening Hours: Mon – Wed, Fri – Sun: 2.30pm – 1.30am
    Tel: 9835 7884

    10. Inspirasi Stall

    Inspirasi is a Muslim hawker stall that is well-known with Bedok residents. Here, you can find the legendary Soto Ayam dish, which according to word-of-mouth, is the best in Singapore. Despite winning many awards, prices are still kept low while the food remains scrupulously prepared. Inspirasi is truly inspiring (sorry, I had to).

    [caption id="attachment_7756" align="alignnone" width="727"]Image Credit: burpple Mee Rebus ($2.50)
    Image Credit: burpple[/caption] [caption id="attachment_7752" align="alignnone" width="725"]Image Credit: burpple Soto Ayam ($2.50)
    A spoonful of flavourful chicken broth bedazzled with a motley of ingredients. This dish is legen – wait for it…
    Image Credit: burpple[/caption]

    Inspirasi Stall
    Address: #01-11, Blk 207, Bedok Interchange Food Centre, New Upper Changi Road, S 460207
    Opening Hours: Mon – Wed, Fri – Sun: 12pm – 12am
    Tel: 6589 8494

    Yup, that’s your heart going bedok bedok. With choices like these, is it any wonder?

    Are there other eateries you think we should have included in the list? Let us know!

    Also read: Here’s An Ingenious Way To Easily Save 10% Off Your Dining Bills

    Do It Yourself! 6 Eateries Where You Can Customise Your Own Food

    Whenever we eat out, there would be certain expectations we’d hold the restaurant to. Besides the usual service standards of being shown to our tables and keeping our drinking glasses full, we would also expect the food to be served piping hot in front of us, all ready for consumption.

    But interestingly, there seems to be a growing interest in working for your own food. Trading in some elbow grease and getting your hands dirty for your own food creations.

    Instead of making the consumer buck worth and enjoying the service rendered, here are some places that are embracing this shift. Customers serve themselves instead of being served.

    1. Mix & match your own juice drink

    [embed]https://www.instagram.com/p/BACYoybrxAA/[/embed]

    You’ll never revert to the plain old apple juice once you’ve experienced the customisability and immersive experience of Credit: These capsules represent the ingredients that go into your own original juice, and you go around the store like a worker bee filling your honeycomb basket with ingredients to create your ultimate original juice drink. How fun is that?

    Beesket
    Address: Changi City Point, #01-20
    Opening hours: Mon – Sun: 10:30am – 9:30pm

    2. Get wrapping! DIY your own Popiah

    [embed]https://www.instagram.com/p/4I7a2KOQDM/[/embed]

    By the end of the meal, you and your friends would have become professional popiah wrappers. The DIY popiah set from Good Chance Popiah Eating House deconstructs all the ingredients that go into making a good roll and have you wrapping them for yourself instead.

    You’re in full control over the proportions of what goes into your own popiah. The trick to achieving that perfect popiah is to not over-stuff them with the restaurant’s seven ingredient filling – more than the standard medley.

    Good Chance Popiah Eating House
    Address: 149 Silat Avenue, #01-58
    Opening hours: Tue – Sun: 11:30am – 2:30pm, 6pm – 9:30pm

    3. Customise your very own breakfast bowl

    [embed]https://www.instagram.com/p/s1H8ElFKz8/[/embed]

    Start your day right with this breakfast bar that’s located in the heart of Singapore’s business district area. Load up on your very own breakfast bowl filled with Whole & Hearty‘s homemade yogurt, organic oatmeal and top it off with a selection of fruits and nuts.

    [caption id="attachment_8636" align="aligncenter" width="960"]Credit: Whole & Hearty Credit: Whole & Hearty[/caption]

    Pay for the price of a cup and go nuts trying to stuff your bowl full. No need to feel guilty here – everything offered are great healthy options from flax seeds, granola and other superfood that are on daily rotation.

    Whole & Hearty
    Address: 12 Gopeng Street, #01-84
    Opening hours: Mon – Fri: 8am – 1pm

    4. Design your own pancake

    [embed]https://www.instagram.com/p/vyEhUNJN3s/[/embed]

    It’s now a lot more fun to have everyone’s favourite breakfast food. Nook Cafe & Bar offers a DIY pancake set where you cook your own pancakes on a hot griddle. Conveniently stored in squeezy bottles, have a go at creating masterful pancake art pieces and gobble down your own creation.

    [caption id="attachment_8637" align="aligncenter" width="960"]Credit: Whole & Hearty Credit: Nook Cafe & Bar[/caption] [caption id="attachment_8638" align="aligncenter" width="960"]Credit: Nook Credit: Nook Cafe & Bar[/caption]

    Edible art is now made possible (and more delicious) with various pancake batter flavours and toppings. So get ready to create a unique pancake like no other!

    Nook Cafe & Bar
    Address: 21 Lorong Kilat, #01-03
    Opening hours: Mon – Thu: 12pm – 11pm; Fri: 12pm – 12:30am; Sat: 10am – 12:30pm; Sun: 10am – 11pm

    5. Watch your food sizzle to your preferred doneness

    [embed]https://www.instagram.com/p/4g5Uq9muvG/[/embed]

    Freshness takes centerstage at Credit: Hot Stones[/caption]

    You can now play your own teppanyaki chef to quality meats like wagyu beef and kurobuta pork.

    Hot Stones
    Address:
    3D River Valley Road, #01-06
    Opening hours: 
    Sun – Thu: 12pm – 3pm, 6pm – 11pm; Fri – Sat: 12pm – 3pm, 6pm – 2am

    6. Create your own Tacos

    [caption id="attachment_8640" align="aligncenter" width="2048"]Credit: Super Loco Credit: Super Loco[/caption]

    Get ready to immerse in strong fun vibes when you step into Credit: Super Loco[/caption]

    Fill those taco shells with your choice of pork or chicken and top it off with guacamole, salsa, some cotija cheese and a dash of hot sauce – super delicioso indeed.

    Superloco
    Address:
    60 Robertson Quay, #01-13
    Opening hours: 
    Mon – Fri: 5pm – 12am; Sat – Sun: 10am – 3:30pm, 5pm – 12am

    So the next time you want to be more involved in the food preparation process, head down to these DIY eateries for a truly immersive experience like no other. Get ready to get your fingers dirty as you become the boss of your own food!

    (Header image by Also read: Here’s An Ingenious Way To Easily Save 10% Off Your Dining Bills

    6 Chwee Kueh In Singapore So Good You’ll Want To Try Them All!

    chwee kueh jian bo

    Ahh Chwee Kueh. Much of a childhood snack, this traditional dish is one that appeals to both the old and the young. How can it not? Freshly steamed rice cake topped with some preserved radish and a dash of chilli, it’s no surprise that this snack is a crowd pleaser.

    A simple dish that extraordinarily excites our palates, we list six of our favourite picks!

    1. Bedok Chwee Kueh

    https://www.instagram.com/p/BFsWCLNyi-w/?tagged=bedokchweekueh

    Bigger and better, Bedok’s chwee kueh is as delectable as the sweet chai poh. Its chilli, on the other hand, effortlessly sends us through the roof every time .

    https://www.instagram.com/p/2mo7bGQSHs/?tagged=bedokchweekueh

    Bedok Chwee Kueh
    Address: #01-53, 207 New Upper Changi Road
    Opening hours: Daily 7am -11pm
    Contact: 9833 7709

    2. Tiong Bahru Jian Bo Shui Kueh

    [caption id="attachment_8151" align="aligncenter" width="700"]chwee kueh jian bo Image credit: Jian Bo Shui Kueh[/caption]

    Some of us (our parents included) practically grew up eating Image credit: Eat Dream Love[/caption]

    Tiong Bahru Jian Bo Shui Kueh
    Address: Tiong Bahru Market #02-05, Seng Poh Road (Check other outlets here)
    Opening hours: Daily 6.30am-10pm

    3. Kovan Chwee Kueh

    https://www.instagram.com/p/mrVNrUGLNJ/?taken-at=484166

    We quote a Yelp reviewer “it has a bit of bite though it is not too dry or hard like some other places.” So if velvety glutinous rice cake is your cup of tea, you know where to get your Chwee Kueh fix.

    Kovan Chwee Kueh
    Address: Bendemeer Market & Food Centre, Block 29 Bendemeer Road, #01-64

    4. KrisFlyer Gold Lounge

    [caption id="attachment_8202" align="aligncenter" width="700"]KrisFlyer Gold Lounge chwee kueh Image credit: David Yong[/caption]

    Talk about atas Chwee Kueh. If you’re heading overseas, this might be an opportunity to indulge in some steamed rice cakes.

    Granted, KrisFlyer Gold Lounge’s Chwee Kueh is not exactly in the same league as the others’, but we reckon it still has its charm. Besides its fragrance, it’s also relatively less greasy which makes it a healthier alternative.

    KrisFlyer Gold Lounge
    Address: Changi Airport Terminal 2 & 3
    Opening hours: Daily 24 hours

    5. Ghim Moh Chwee Kueh

    https://www.instagram.com/p/vcceHbLuNe/?tagged=ghimmohchweekueh

    Back in March, we announced that Ghim Moh Market is back for good. Amongst our top picks is the authentic Ghim Moh Chwee Kueh. Even without the accompaniment of the radish and chilli sauce, the glutinous rice cake is, dare we say, as delicious.

    https://www.instagram.com/p/BDcfrhsMIlA/?tagged=ghimmohchweekueh

    Ghim Moh Chwee Kueh
    Address: #01-54, Ghim Moh Market and Food Centre, 20 Ghim Moh Road
    Opening hours: Daily 6am-6pm
    Contact: 9176 6850

    6. TANGS Market

    https://www.instagram.com/p/8qLsFHw4JG/?tagged=tangsmarket

    We’ll take hawker centres over food courts any day. But that’s not to say that the latter is not worth visiting. The chwee kueh at TANGS Market, for instance, whilst considerably pricier, do exceed our expectations. Chewy yet appealing, this is the kind of food that gives us a little extra comfort in our lives.

    https://www.instagram.com/p/6Zgnj-iXGz/?tagged=tangsmarket

    Tiong Bahru Chwee Kueh
    Address: TANGS Orchard Basement 1, 310 Orchard Road
    Opening hours: Monday to Saturday 10.30am to 9.30pm, Sunday 10.30am to 8.30pm

    Do you prefer eating chwee kueh for breakfast or supper? Which stall is your favourite? We know we’re missing a few so share with us your top pick(s) and you’ll win our love!

    (Header image by Eat Dream Love, words by writer)

    Also read: Kyushu Pancake – Japan’s Famous Guilt-Free Pancake Is Here In SG

    Rise Of The Rice Bowls – 9 Bowls That Taste As Good As They Look

    They say that a square meal is a nourishing and balanced one that contains enough ingredients and nutrients to satisfy the body. But with the rise of restaurants serving a comprehensive rice bowl fit for a king, you’ll soon be agreeing that circular meals are exactly what you need right now.

    From the delightfully delicious ingredients to the delicate crockery that house them, rice bowls makes for an easy and wholesome meal that’s easy on the eyes and stomachs. Here’s our list of some of the prettiest rice bowls we could find.

    1. MAY MAY

    [embed]https://www.instagram.com/p/BCU9cHpwIoy/[/embed]

    I run the risk of sounding lame but the first thought that came to my mind is ‘this place very chio’. And you’ll see where I’m coming from once you’ve had a meal there. Natural lighting and living wall facade adorns the minimalistic space, and everywhere you turn is an Instagram spot. But the real star is their lunchtime rice bowls. Opt for the Butter Poached Cod ($18), where tender smooth pieces of cod lie in the midst of wakame, oven roasted tomatoes, grilled mushrooms, pickled lotus root, wasabi sprouts, soft centred egg – the result is a kaleidoscope of colours that’s almost too pretty to eat.

    MAY MAY
    Address: 65 Tras Street
    Opening hours: Mon – Sat: 11:30am – 3pm, 6:30pm – 11pm

    2. Ninja Bowl

    [embed]https://www.instagram.com/p/BD8C_obw6hl/[/embed]

    Perhaps the reason why the restaurant is named ‘Ninja’, other than its obvious Japanese influence, is the speed at which you’ll find yourself swiftly clearing the contents of your rice bowl. These hearty and affordable rice bowls come loaded with various protein and a slew of healthy greens, making them a great meal option. The Kabuki bowl ($14) is a safe option with seared honey chicken leg, baby corn, pickled beets, an onsen egg and bean sprouts that come together harmoniously in your mouth.

    Ninja Bowl
    Address: 15 Duxton Road
    Opening hours: Mon – Fri: 9:30am – 7:30pm; Sat – Sun: 9am – 6pm

    3. Aloha Poké

    [embed]https://www.instagram.com/p/9EL-Nlr5AH/[/embed]

    The funky name reflects the brand’s ethos – bringing fun and fresh Hawaiian flavours into Singapore. They specialise in poké, which for the uninitiated, is a traditional Hawaiian dish where raw seasoned tuna is tossed with sesame seeds, sweet onion and scallions. Served with fresh salad greens, squeeze the wedge of lime provided to awaken the fresh tropical flavours of this dish. This light meal (from $11.90) makes for a great healthy lunch option for all sashimi lovers out there.

    Aloha Poké
    Address: 92 Amoy Street
    Opening hours: Mon – Sat: 11:30am – 2:30pm, 5:30pm – 11pm

    4. Tendon Ginza Itsuki

    [embed]https://www.instagram.com/p/BB34RvdvBlk/[/embed]

    The snaking queue outside this eatery in Tanjong Pagar is testament to the popularity of its tendon – a one-bowl soul food filled with various ingredients deep fried to a delectable golden brown. Step inside and you’ll see most people indulging in their Special Tendon Set ($13.90), where prawns, chicken and vegetables are prepared tempura style. Don’t forget the oozing tempura half-boiled egg that’ll make for a great sauce coating. This might sound like an indulgent bowl of fried food, but you’ll have little regrets once you start eating.

    Tendon Ginza Itsuki
    Address: 101 Tanjong Pagar Road
    Opening hours: Mon – Sun: 11:30am – 2:30pm, 5:30pm – 10pm

    5. Grain Traders

    [embed]https://www.instagram.com/p/BCotL2MOchA/[/embed]

    The open interior and open-spaced kitchen makes Grain Traders a welcoming place for a healthy and hearty meal option. Personalise your very own nutritious lunch with their Build-You-Own-Bowl ($16) and choose from the various protein and vegetables that’s freshly prepared in batches. Expect charred furikake corn, seared marinated tuna, apple kimchi and other mouth-watering selections. The only thing you’ll need to worry about is holding up the queue when attempting to choose from their extensive variety.

    Grain Traders
    Address: 138 Market Street, #01-01/02/03
    Opening hours: Mon – Fri: 8am – 8pm

    6. Nosh

    [embed]https://www.instagram.com/p/BFoiqqvQkMj/[/embed]

    I’m thinking that the restaurant aims to provide nourishing food in a posh setting judging from the earthy wooden furnishing and wholesome menu. Don’t be too quick to dismiss the Yakitori Salmon ($24) as yet another Japanese fare. Nosh brings the usual Japanese flavour up a notch with their thick chunk of salmon resting on a bed of sweet coconut rice and topped with vietnamese caramel, creating a salty-sweet dish that’s unlike any brunch item you’ve had before.

    Nosh
    Address: 9 Rochester Park
    Opening hours: Tue – Fri: 11:30m – 10:30pm; Sat – Sun: 10:am – 10:30pm

    7. Superbowl

    [embed]https://www.instagram.com/p/BETCWnuuUhm/[/embed]

    Inspired by donburis, Superbowl is a concept eatery specialising in rice bowls that are outstandingly fresh and delicious. Their Super Fish Bowl ($20) is the ultimate dish for sashimi lovers, where a selection of salmon, tuna, swordfish and scallop sashimi sits comfortably above a bed of short-grain rice and crowned with a spoonful of fish roe.

    Superbowl
    Address: 8 Circular Road
    Opening hours: Mon – Fri: 11:30am – 3pm

    8. The Refinery

    [embed]https://www.instagram.com/p/BFQEIjNMJTQ/[/embed]

    The minimalist industrial interior of The Refinery plays host to a restaurant/ bar and a co-working space upstairs. I don’t know about you but if I have a restaurant that serves this Gyuniku Donburi ($15) right below my workspace, I’ll have to resist having it for lunch every other day. With fragrant truffled shimeiji mushrooms, shredded tare marinated beef and a runny onsen egg, this rice bowl that’s punctuated with scallions is a well thought-out dish that’ll have you coming back for seconds.

    The Refinery
    Address: 115 King George’s Ave
    Opening hours: Tue – Thu: 12pm – 3pm, 6pm – 12am; Fri: 12pm – 3pm, 6pm – 1am; Sat: 11am – 4pm, 6pm – 1am; Sun: 11am – 4pm

    9. Tanuki Raw

    [embed]https://www.instagram.com/p/_QT8w8nWLG/[/embed]

    Our last restaurant is a heavyweight when it comes to the rice bowl scene in Singapore. Touted as one of Singapore’s best lunch bowls, Tanuki Raw dishes out affordable meals as well as alcoholic drinks. Order the crowd favourite – Truffle Yakiniku ($18) – which features slices of US angus beef short ribs pan seared to perfection and drizzled with truffle soy sauce that’ll make a great accompaniment to the mixed rice.  

    Tanuki Raw
    Address: 181 Orchard Road
    Opening hours: Mon – Sun: 11am – 10:30pm

    With these photogenic rice bowl options, you’ll have to remember to put down your phone and actually get to eating the meal before it turns cold. Boasting the complete package of both looks and taste, you’ll soon find yourself falling head-over-heels for these rice bowls. 

    (Header image: Also read: Food Trend Alert! Are Over The Top Fries The Next Food Craze?

    Here’s An Ingenious Way To Easily Save 10% Off Your Dining Bills

    When it comes to the end of the month, some of us always have issues with ‘meal budgeting’ (read being broke and hungry).  An eat-out meal can easily cost up to $25 per person and all that MSG from 3 servings of instant noodles per day isn’t the best idea.

    Fortunately, at Discover SG, we understand the pain of not being able to enjoy good food! We’ve teamed up with HollerOut, a referral marketing app with some of the best meal deals in town, to bring you 10% discounts off some of your dining bills.

    Here are 6 irresistible deals that will do your wallet a big favour. The best part? You will even get rewarded, monetarily, when you refer friends! Read on to find out how this works.

    10% off your dining bills at these 6 places

    1. Sin Lee Foods

    https://www.instagram.com/p/BFTirF1g1oW/?taken-at=327556374&hl=en

    Tired of the usual brunch food? Head over to Sin Lee Foods for a one of a kind menu. This cafe boasts beautiful aesthetics and unique creations such as Salted Egg Sweet Potato Fries, Aburi Broccoli, Mentaiko Crab Mantou and many more. The talents of Sin Lee were trained in New York and French kitchens and yes, they sure know a thing or two about flavours.

    Sin Lee Foods
    Address: Blk 4 Jalan Bukit Ho Swee #01-164
    Contact number: +65 6377 3170
    Operating hours: Tue-Fri (11am-9pm), Sat (9.30am-9pm), Sun (9.30am-6pm)
    Website/Facebook: Sin Lee Foods
    HollerOut deal: 10% discount with $50 min spent (code: DISCOVERSG)

    2. Maison Ikkoku

    https://www.instagram.com/p/BFvOwSjh6sT/?taken-at=214431872&hl=en

    What do you get when you combine all day breakfast, gourmet sandwiches, and specialty coffee? And on top of that, a cafe that switches into a cocktail bar when the sun sets. I don’t know what you have in mind but that sure sounds like Maison Ikkoku to me. Located near the Arab Street district, this is the kind of place to dine at after some hipster shopping at Haji Lane.

    Maison Ikkoku
    Address: 20 Kandahar Street, 198885
    Contact number: +65 6294 0078
    Operating Hours: Mon- Thu (9am-9pm), Fri – Sat (9am-11pm), Sun (9am-7pm)
    Website/Facebook: Maison Ikkoku
    HollerOut deal: 10% discount with $50 min spent (code: DISCOVERSG)

    3. Rochor Thai

    https://www.instagram.com/p/BEbI_HXn_RH/?taken-at=128119604&hl=en

    No flavours are more appetising than sour and spicy and you sure can depend on Rochor Thai for some seriously appetite-arousing Thai dishes in Singapore. Initially a small eatery at Rochor Centre in 2012, this Thai restaurant has successfully charmed many tastebuds with their authentic flavours and is now established firmly at Thomson Road.

    Rochor Thai
    Address: 275 Thomson Road #01-03 Novena Regency 307645
    Contact number: +65 64403270
    Operating Hours: Mon- Thu (11.30am-2:30pm, 6:00pm-9:30pm), Fri (11:30am-2:30pm, 5:30pm- 10pm), Sat-Sun (12pm – 2:30pm, 5:30pm -10pm)
    Website/Facebook: Rochor Thai
    HollerOut  deal: 10% discount with $50 min spent (code: DISCOVERSG)

    4. On The Table

    https://www.instagram.com/p/BFYT2ZTFL6E/?taken-at=772085775&hl=en

    Feeling down? Maybe what you need is comfort food prepared with TLC – carefully crafted coffee and some sweet handmade desserts. Look no further, you can get it all at On The Table. Located at Pasir Panjang, this cosy cafe dishes out the best comfort food in generous portions.

    On The Table
    Address: 118 Pasir Panjang Road, 118541
    Contact number: +65 9780 8094
    Operating Hours: Tue-Thu (11am-10pm), Fri (11am-10:30pm), Sat (10am-10:30pm), Sun (10am-100pm)
    Website/Facebook: On The Table
    HollerOut deal: 10% discount with $60 min spent, $5 referral fee (code: DISCOVERSG)

    5. The Laneway Market

    https://www.instagram.com/p/BFvzCmnts-R/?taken-at=501059963&hl=en

    From casual breakfast to dinner mains, you can count on The Laneway Market for a hearty dining experience. Everything on their menu looks super yum and if you’ve no idea what to choose, we suggest you go for the Dashi Risotto, Truffle Fries or Wagyu Beef Cheeks Aglio Olio. And did we also mention that they bake their own pastries?

    The Laneway Market
    Address: 266 Tanjong Katong Road Singapore 437053
    Contact number: +65 6719 8832
    Operating hours: Wed – Sun, 10am-9:30pm
    Website/Facebook: The Laneway Market
    HollerOut deal: 10% discount with $40 min spent (code: DISCOVERSG)

    6. Brother Bird

    https://www.instagram.com/p/BEfWirLMPYr/?taken-at=947616497&hl=en

    Artisanal soft serve ice cream, home made rice donuts (mochi) and a HollerOut discount… need we say more? Just call your friends and head to Brother Bird at Bali Lane. They serve some of the prettiest looking ice cream in town but the matcha mochi balls… literally BURST with matcha lava!!

    Brother Bird
    Address: 30 Bali Lane Singapore 189866
    Contact number: +65 9800 7628
    Operating hours: Wed – Mon (12pm-10pm)
    Website/Facebook: Brother Bird
    HollerOut deal: 10% discount with $55 min spent (code: DISCOVERSG)

    How do I use the discount code? Introducing HollerOut

    What exactly is HollerOut all about? Basically, HollerOut encourages word of mouth recommendation for cafes and restaurants with a promo code concept.

    For example, when I visit Brother Bird, I’ll key in the code ‘DISCOVERSG‘ on the app to get my 10% discount with a minimum spend of $55. After that, I’ll automatically be an ambassador for Brother Bird and will have my very own promo code, which I can share to my friends.

    When my friend uses my promo code at Brother Bird, I will be rewarded with a referral fee of $5. Simply, you’ll get a discount by quoting someone else’s code and you’ll even be rewarded monetarily if your referral code is used by your friend.

    Can’t wait to enjoy the 10% discount off your dining bill at these 6 places and more? Just follow the following steps to great discounts (and extra pocket money):

    1. Download the app (iOs / android) and visit a partner merchant mentioned above
    2. Open the merchant’s page in the app, click on ‘Promo Code’
    3. Key in ‘DISCOVERSG’ as promo code and pass the phone to the merchant, who will validate the promotion.
    4. After a successful transaction, the merchant will give the discount, and in the ‘Home’ tab, you will see a ‘+$5’ in your credit (which you can withdraw anytime)

    With nothing to lose, and everything to gain, what are you waiting for? Download the app and go cafe hopping with your friends while enjoying discounts and getting rewarded!

    *Referral fee differs from place to place. It isn’t always $5.

    Brought to you by Discover SG x HollerOut

    (Header image credit: calvinteng, words by editor)

    Also read: Join In One Of SG’s Biggest & Best Bazaars – The Market Hop

    8 Best Wanton Mee In Singapore That’ll Have You Wan-ting More!

    Picture this: thick char siew slices served with springy noodles and meaty dumplings bursting with flavour. Mmm. If this doesn’t make your mouth water, we’re afraid you can’t call yourself a local. We kid.

    With the best plate of Wanton Mee in mind, let’s dive in and discover our top eight favourite Wanton Mee in Singapore!

    1. Soon Kee

    https://www.instagram.com/p/8RigJJLMdd/?taken-at=320763976

    Home to Soon Kee Wanton Mee, Pek Kio Food Centre is easily one of the best places to dine in in Singapore. Unlike most stalls, Soon Kee goes the extra mile to roast their own char siew – that’s right, that’s where the incredible flavours come from!

    Pair that with premium chilli and fresh dumplings and you have a worthy contender. Unfortunately, Soon Kee’s opening hours is as predictable as our weather. So if you’re making a trip down to Pek Kio Food Centre, be sure to drop them a message on their Facebook page to avoid disappointment.

    https://www.instagram.com/p/BCnLyUWnobA/?taken-at=320763976

    Soon Kee Wanton Mee
    Address: Pek Kio Food Centre, Block 41A, Cambridge Road #01-44
    Opening hours: Daily: 5am-1.30pm, closed on Tue and Wed

    2. Tanjong Rhu

    https://www.instagram.com/p/BCJgRzzkJiS/?tagged=tanjongrhuwantonmee

    Morning happiness indeed.

    It may have its fair share of criticism both on and offline, but Tanjong Rhu Wanton Noodle remains as one of our favourite wanton mee picks in Singapore.

    With every bite of the noodles and wanton comes a forkful of comfort that feeds our soul. Honestly, this would hands down be our Hangover Fixer Elixir in a heartbeat. Who needs Barney Stinson’s secret ingredients when we’ve got our own?

    https://www.instagram.com/p/6u2CFuBTdp/?tagged=tanjongrhuwantonmee

    Tanjong Rhu Wanton Noodle
    Address: Jalan Batu Food Centre Block 4A #01-35
    Opening hours: Daily: 7.30am to 2.30pm, closed on Mon and Tue,
    Contact: 9066 8262

    3. Dunman Road Char Siew

    https://www.instagram.com/p/t4gU8qrhiV/?tagged=dunmanroadcharsiewwantonmee

    If we were to describe Dunman Road’s wanton noodles in one word, that word would be ‘unique’.  Just look at all those colours and no, the photo isn’t photoshopped. A little filtered maybe but you get our drift. Dunman Road Char Siew’s version is a tad different and worthy of mention, nonetheless.

    The wanton, char siew, and noodles are slightly above average, but the chilli is the highlight of the dish. If you don’t mind fervently wiping beads of sweat off your forehead throughout your meal, (it’s that spicy), you won’t want to miss this.

    Dunman Road Char Siew Wan Ton Mee
    Address: Dunman Food Centre, 271 Onan Road, #02-19
    Opening hours: Daily: 12pm-8.30pm, closed on Mon and Thu

    4. Pontian

    pontian wanton noodle singapore sembawangAny hardcore wanton mee fan knows that Pontian has a number of outlets in the country. We reckon the one at Sembawang Shopping Centre is one of the best out of the lot. The queue’s shorter and there are plenty of seats available.

    At Pontian, the fried dumplings are so well done that if you’re not careful, the edge of it might scrape your gums. We’re willing to let that slide, because they’re insanely addictive. The portion is small, but if you order a set (say, with green bean soup or tua suan), you’ll see that it fills up your tummy in a flash.

    Pontian Wanton Noodles
    Address: Sembawang Shopping Centre, 604 Sembawang Road, Food Junction Kitchen
    Opening hours: Food court is open from 10am to 10pm daily.

    5. Huang Ji

    [caption id="attachment_8127" align="aligncenter" width="662"]Huang Ji Wanton Mee Singapore Image credit: The Chosen Glutton[/caption]

    Besides Tian Tian Hainanese Chicken Rice, Maxwell Food Centre is also home to other famous delicacies, such as Huang Ji Wanton Mee. What makes Huang Ji different from its rivals is its noodles. Do you know that they’re made from spinach and tomatoes? Chewy and luscious, this is definitely a must-visit if you enjoy handmade food.

    [caption id="attachment_8128" align="aligncenter" width="700"]Huang Ji Wanton Mee Singapore Image credit: The Chosen Glutton[/caption]

    Huang Ji Wanton Mee
    Address: 1 Kadayanallur Sreet, Maxwell Food Centre, Stall 29
    Opening hours: Mon to Fri: 7.30am-3pm & 5pm-9pm; Sat: 7.30am-2pm

    6. Kok Kee

    https://www.instagram.com/p/-_FVeBS1Ks/?taken-at=258697960

    Kok Kee packs a powerful punch. The braised sauce mingled with chunky dumplings, stretchy noodles, and soft char siew will electrify your taste buds and leave you wanting more. If the service staff weren’t so grumpy, we would have ordered a few more plates of this goodness.

    https://www.instagram.com/p/5lmTs-jeo-/?taken-at=258697960

    Kok Kee Wanton Noodles
    Address: Hoa Nam Building, 27 Foch Road, Lavender Food Hub
    Opening hours: Daily: 12.30pm till sold out, closed on Wed & third Thu of the month

    7. Hoe Soon

    wanton noodle singapore sembawang

    Have a low-tolerance for spicy food or prefer non-spicy dishes in general? At Hoe Soon, indulge in a delightful plate of wanton mee soaked in saccharine tomato dressing. To borrow the words of GotLines, the tomato sauce is so sweet, it could put Hershey’s out of business. Hoe Soon requires no marketing on its part. Word of mouth and good food are powerful tools to keep both new and old customers coming back for more. We recommend the mee pok dry version for this one!

    Hoe Soon Wanton Mee
    Address: Chong Pang Market & Food Centre, #01-158, Block 106 Yishun Ring Road
    Opening hours: Closed on Wednesdays

    8. Eng’s Noodles House

    https://www.instagram.com/p/84uitbRZPs/?tagged=engnoodleshouse

    We spoke too soon. Eng’s chilli sauce is way more fiery than Dunman Road’s. Did you know that their chilli bottle is labelled with a warning sticker? Suffice to say, it’s the chilli sauce, excellent egg noodles, and tasty wantons that make Eng’s such a hot favourite among Singaporeans.

    https://www.instagram.com/p/BBFS-BbFgSX/?tagged=engnoodleshouse

    Eng’s Noodles House
    Address: 287 Tanjong Katong Road
    Opening hours: Daily 11am to 9pm, closed on alternate Mondays.

    Nothing cheers us up on a gloomy day better than a great plate of wanton mee. It’s the ultimate staple food. Don’t know what to eat? Order wanton mee lor.

    As always, feel free to share your favourite wanton mee on our Facebook page! We promise we’ll love it.

    (Header image credit: Also read: 6 Lava Desserts That Are Irresistible!

    8 Best Hokkien Mee In Singapore For That Fragrant Seafood Flavour

    Ask any Singaporean and it won’t be long before they list Hae Mee, otherwise known as Fried Hokkien Prawn Noodles as one of their favourite local dishes. Who could blame them? Fried with eggs, yellow noodles, bee hoon, juicy prawns, squid and pork belly strips before simmered in rich prawn broth, this mouth-watering dish is perfect for any time of the day.

    From the dry to the soup(ier) versions, here’s our pick of the 8 best Hokkien Mee you can find in our sunny island!

    1. Ah Hock Fried Hokkien Noodles

    [caption id="attachment_8118" align="alignnone" width="920"]Ah-Hock-Fried-Hokkien-Noodles-Singapore Image credit: aspirantsg[/caption]

    Situated at Chomp Chomp Food Centre, Ah Hock Fried Hokkien Noodles is the place to go for your late night Hokkien Mee fix! Their version of Hokkien Mee is the dry version and they use thin bee hoon instead of the thick ones. What’s different about this dish is that, along with its noodles, bits of prawns and seafood are simmered in pork stock, giving the dish its rich flavour. This stall also uses a combination of cut red chilli and sambal chilli.

    Expectedly, Hokkien Mee lovers around the area flock to this stall. There’s a short queue to place your order, and they’ll deliver the Hokkien Mee to you. The waiting time ranges from 15 – 45mins. $3, $4, $5 portions are available.

    Ah Hock Hokkien Noodles
    Address: 20 Kensington Park Road, #01-27, S557269
    Opening Hours: 530pm-12am (Closed every other Tue)

    2. Geylang Lor 29 Fried Hokkien Mee

    [caption id="attachment_8123" align="alignnone" width="640"]geylang-lor-29-fried-hokkien-mee Image credit: Burpple[/caption]

    It may be named Geylang Lorong 29 Hokkien Mee, but this stall is actually located at East Coast Road. The reason is simple; the stall is helmed but the same family who owns the stall located in Geylang Lorong 9! A rare sight these days, the stall owner uses a special charcoal fire wok to fry the noodles. This dish is of the soupier type and has a slightly smokey taste to it. Simmered in prawn stock for 7 -8 mins, the owners do their best to serve pipping hot noodles to every customer.

    Although the waiting time is slightly longer and each plate may be relatively more expensive ($6), the Hokkien Mee here is flavourful; full of garlicky, eggy goodness; topped with fresh sotong and prawns; and served with deep-fried crispy lard – totally worth the wait! With the generous portion of seafood, we thought the noodles are worth the price and if you ask us, this is definitely one of our top choices for Hokkien Mee.

    Geylang Lor 29 Fried Hokkien Mee
    Address:
    396 East Coast Rd, Singapore 428994
    Contact:
    65 6440 5340
    Opening Hours: 
    Daily 11am-8pm

    3. Nam Sing Hokkien Fried Mee

    [caption id="attachment_8126" align="alignnone" width="640"]nam sing hokkien mee Image credit: burpple[/caption]

    Run by four brothers who used to run their stall at Hougang, Nam Sing Fried Hokkien Mee is now situated at Old Airport Road Food Centre.

    The Hokkien Mee here isn’t overly dry and has sufficient moisture that brings out its flavour. With more bee hoon than yellow noodles, we have to say, the owner really knows the way to our hearts. The flavourful savoury prawn stock which requires hours of preparation coupled with the extensive amount of ingredients used, gives the stock its slight tinge of sweetness. For the health conscious, you’ll be glad to know that no lard is used for this stall’s Hokkien Mee.

    Priced at $3, expect to wait for approximately 15-30mins for your plate of noodles. Is it worth the wait? Definitely. Do note that this stall closes on random days and they are usually sold out before closing hours, so do call before heading down to avoid disappointment!

    Nam Sing Hokkien Fried Mee
    Address: Old Airport Road, #01-32 Old Airport Road Food Centre, S390051
    Contact: 65 6242 0080
    Opening Hours: 11.30am-9.30pm, closed on Mon

    4. Singapore Fried Hokkien Mee

    [caption id="attachment_8130" align="alignnone" width="612"]singapore fried hokkien mee Image credit: burpple[/caption]

    Whenever anyone mentions Whampoa Market, Singapore Fried Hokkien Mee stall is one that immediately comes to mind. It may have perpetually long queues, but this wok hei* Hokkien Mee noodles is well worth the wait. With 3 types of chillies – sambal, red cut, and green cut – take your pick and spice the dish up your way. Non-chilli lovers may want to stay away from the super spicy sambal chilli.

    At $4 per plate, their Hokkien Mee will make you instinctively slurp up the noodles in no time.

    Singapore Fried Hokkien Mee 
    Address: Whampoa Food Market, Block 90 Whampoa Drive #01-32,  Singapore 320090
    Contact: 65 6251 2857
    Opening Hours: Daily 4pm-1.30am

    5. Eng Ho Hokkien Mee

    [caption id="attachment_8131" align="alignnone" width="1024"]ah eng hokkien mee Image credit: misstamchiak[/caption]

    Do you know that the owners of Ah Eng Hokkien Mee are relatives of the owners of Nam Sing Hokkien Fried Mee and Ah Hock Fried Hokkien Noodles? Now you know why their thin bee hoon seems familiar.

    The stock has ingredients such as wild sea prawns instead of the usual tiger prawns. Combined with squid and pork, the overall sweetness of the stock is hardly surprising. Their Hokkien Mee leans to the wetter version with it being neither overly satly nor oily.

    Its location may not be easily accessible, but the stall still attracts a huge crowd. With its operating hours from 4pm-12am, Ah Eng is the place to go for your dinner and late night suppers! Price ranges from $3 to $5 per plate.

    Ah Eng Hokkien Mee
    Address: 409 Ang Mo Kio Avenue 10, #01-34 Teck Ghee Square Food Centre, S560409
    Contact: 98156826 (Mr Tan)
    Opening Hours: 4pm-12am (Closed on alt Tues)

    6. Simon Road Hokkien Mee

    [caption id="attachment_8136" align="alignnone" width="638"]simon road hokkien mee Image credit: Burpple[/caption]

    Originally located at the corner coffee shop along Upper Serangoon Road and Simon Road, Simon Road Hokkien Mee has relocated to Hougang. This stall is now helmed by its fourth-generation.

    With its spicy chilli and drips of lime juice, this is one 0f the most flavourful, tasty Hokkien Mee with a taste of wok hei* and a fragrant aroma.

    If you are around Hougang Central area, do check out this plate of traditional goodness. Their Hokkien Mee ranges from $4 for a small plate up to $10. Advance orders are also accepted should you wish to skip the queue.

    210 Hougang Street 21, Singapore 530210
    Contact: 9820 2888
    Opening Hours: 11am-10pm (Closed on Mon & Tue)

    7. Soon Kee Fried Hokkien Prawn Noodle

    [caption id="attachment_8133" align="alignnone" width="640"]
    soon kee hokkien mee Image credit: burpple[/caption]

    Situated in the West, Soon Kee serves up a delightful plate of Hokkien Mee. Not only are the prawns big and fresh, but the amount of sliced squid is also generous. This Hokkien Mee is served with sambal and lots of crispy pork lard to add extra oomph to your Hokkien Mee.

    If you prefer a soupier version of Hokkien Mee, Soon Kee is definitely the place to go to. Prices start from $3 a plate.

    Soon Kee Fried Hokkien Prawn Noodle
    Address:  Li Soon Eating House, Blk 155 Bukit Batok Street 11, #01-322, Singapore 650155
    Opening Hours: 8am-9pm (Closed on Mon)

    8. Tiong Bahru Yi Sheng Fried Hokkien Prawn Mee

    [caption id="attachment_8143" align="alignnone" width="640"]tiong bahru yisheng hokkien mee Image credit: burpple[/caption]

    Located at ABC Market, Mr Toh is Yi Sheng Hokkien Mee’s second generation hawker. His father started selling Hokkien Mee in a push cart in Tiong Bahru before moving to their current location.

    Yi Sheng’s Hokkien Mee is moist with its thick prawn broth and thin bee hoon. The noodles are tender – not too hard or soggy, with its savoury lard flavour. What’s special about their Hokkien Mee is its signature sambal chilli. Robust with a savoury flavour made from anchovies and dried prawns, their addictive homemade chilli is proudly made using a secret recipe.

    As this stall is quite well known around Queenstown area, queueing in the heat can get pretty frustrating. But fear not, as Mr Toh encourages his customers to make pre-orders to reduce their waiting time! Each plate is priced at $3/$4/$5.

    Tiong Bahru Yi Sheng Fried Hokkien Prawn Mee
    Address: Blk 6, Jalan Bukit Merah, #01-13, ABC Brickworks Food Centre
    Contact: 9862 9296
    Opening Hours: 3pm-10.45pm, closed on Wed

    With such good Hokkien Mee around, it sure is difficult choosing our favourite stall. Do share your favourite Hokkien Mee stall by leaving a comment below!

    *wok hei is the “essence” imparted by the wok when stir-frying over very high heat.

    (Header image by sgfoodonfoot)

    Also read: 5 Best Places To Try Famous American-Chinese Dishes In SG